The Line of Succession

Prince William (left) and Kate Middleton

Speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the situation and because he had not been authorised by the Palace to hold forth on the matter, Prince Charles said he was “delighted” to hear of William and Kate’s engagement. “It came as a complete surprise to me”, he said, speaking off the record.

William is second in line of succession to the throne after Charles himself. Charles has been waiting for some time to gain access to the throne (how long, oh Lord, how long?) but the present incumbent shows little or no sign of wishing to evacuate the premises.

In the meantime, a long line of pretenders has been forming, all seeking access to the throne. Given the congestion, and with a view to providing some measure of “relief”, it has been mooted that an extra throne be installed. Again speaking on condition of anonymity, the Prince of Wales has suggested that the two thrones could be entitled “Ladies” and “Gentlemen”.